Parliament Probes Drugs, Land Grab at Approved School

By Musa Paul Feika

The Parliamentary Committee on Social Welfare, chaired by Hon. Haja Miatta Amara, has raised alarm over rising drug abuse and serious land encroachment affecting the Approved School Juvenile Home in Freetown’s east end.

During its recent oversight visit, the Committee underscored the constitutional duty to protect vulnerable groups and called for regular progress updates from key agencies.

Before touring the school, members engaged the National Public Health Agency and the National Drug Enforcement Agency, where it was revealed that illicit drugs
particularly “kush” pose a growing threat to Sierra Leone’s development and international image. Stakeholders emphasized the need for stronger collaboration, improved data systems, and sustainable funding to enhance the fight against substance abuse.

The Committee learned that while more than 400 addicts have completed rehabilitation at Hastings and Gondoma centers, over 2,000 others have accessed psychological first aid at the Ministry of Social Welfare’s “One Stop Center.” Many rehabilitated youths are now serving as “Ambassadors of Positive Change.”

At the Approved School, MPs found troubling gaps: several teachers remain off the government payroll, and 44 acres of ministry-owned land have been encroached upon by private businesses, markets, and even hotels. The Sierra Leone Football Association currently controls the school field, while some quarters are illegally occupied.

Despite these setbacks, the Committee praised the academic resilience of the juveniles, noting that one rehabilitated student is now enrolled at Njala University.

Meanwhile, the Committee’s attempt to engage the Hajj Secretariat proved unsuccessful, as staff repeatedly failed to attend scheduled meetings.